Ryan Zerr

Position: Vice President
Email: ryanstrykerzerr@gmail.com
Academic College: College of Agriculture, Biotechnology, and Natural Resources
Expected Date of Graduation: 05/01/2027
Bio and Platform: Ryan Stryker Zerr is a junior undergraduate majoring in biochemistry and molecular biology at the University of Nevada, Reno and is running for Vice President of the Associated Students of the University of Nevada. Through involvement in on-campus research, club sports, and a strong appreciation for the university’s theater and dance programs, Ryan has developed an understanding of the broad range of academic, creative, and extracurricular opportunities supported through ASUN. This perspective informs a platform focused on transparency, engagement, and responsible governance.

A central pillar of this platform is increasing meaningful student engagement with the President’s Cabinet of ASUN. Ryan recognizes a persistent disconnect between the general student body and the highest levels of student government and university administration. This gap often leads to confusion, disengagement, and mistrust. Ryan believes ASUN has a responsibility to clearly communicate its actions and decisions, particularly regarding the distribution and use of student fees. Transparency in budgeting and decision-making is essential to building trust and ensuring students feel confident that their contributions are being managed responsibly and effectively.

To support transparency and two-way communication, Ryan advocates for the establishment of a recurring open student forum. This forum would provide a structured, accessible space for students to share ideas, raise concerns, and present proposals directly to ASUN leadership. By creating a consistent avenue for dialogue, ASUN can better identify student priorities, provide explanations for decisions, and demonstrate accountability. Open communication not only improves governance, but also strengthens trust between students and their representatives.

In addition to governance reform, Ryan is committed to increasing student engagement with the fine arts at UNR, particularly performance-based programs such as musical theater, dance, and live performance. The arts contribute significantly to campus culture and interdisciplinary learning, yet many students never attend a performance or exhibition during their time at the university. Ryan views this as a failure of awareness and promotion rather than a lack of interest. The ASUN President’s Cabinet, is well positioned to improve visibility and outreach for existing arts programs through coordinated promotion and collaboration.

This platform is grounded in realistic goals and a clear understanding of ASUN’s role. Ryan Stryker Zerr seeks to serve as Vice President by strengthening communication, improving transparency, and supporting the diverse academic and creative experiences that define the University of Nevada, Reno.